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In this guide, we explore the most common materials available for baby bowls and plates, along with some information to consider and help you decide which ones will best suit your baby’s needs, as well as your values.
Contents
What should I look for when choosing baby tableware? Are there things I should look out for or avoid? What Materials are Best for Baby Bowls and Plates? Food Grade Silicone Recycled Plastic Bamboo Plant Based Stainless Steel Featured Brands Where Can I Find More Information on Feeding Babies? Conclusion
What should I look for when choosing baby tableware?
When selecting baby tableware ensure that it is appropriate for baby's age and developmental stage. Other considerations are that it is durable, functional, safe and non-toxic, as well as easy to clean.
You may also want to think about colour and style, as well as environmental impact. By weighing up these aspects, you can confidently choose the ideal tableware to enhance baby’s mealtime.
Are there things I should look out for or avoid?
When selecting baby tableware, you'll want to find items that are safe and child-friendly, while avoiding the following harmful substances:
● Melamine Plastic
● Cadmium
● Bisphenol A and S (BPA & BPS)
● Lead
● Vinyl
● Petroleum Products
● Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
● Teflon (PFAS)
● Phthalates
What Materials are Best for Baby Bowls and Plates?
Here are some things to consider when choosing the most suitable materials for baby bowls and plates:
- Your child's age and stage - do you need suction and softness for first foods or sturdiness for toddlers?
- Your care style - would you prefer toss in the dishwasher easy? or would you be ok with a material that requires more upkeep?
- Your eco priorities - are sustainable materials, recycled materials or a long lifespan most important to you?
Here’s a quick guide to the most common materials, who they are suited for, what they are constructed from and how to best care for them:
Food Grade Silicone
Soft, safe and suction-friendly
Food-grade silicone is a popular choice for baby bowls and plates because it’s soft to the touch, flexible and virtually unbreakable - perfect for first foods and baby-led weaning. Many silicone plates and bowls also feature built-in suction bases that help keep dishes in place during enthusiastic mealtimes.
Silicone is made for everyday convenience, with pieces that are dishwasher and microwave-safe, that can also handle a wide temperature range, from freezer to ovens and air fryers.
Non-toxic, silicone is free from BPA, BPS, phthalates and latex, making it baby safe and perfect for everyday use.
Are silicone bowls and plates safe for babies?
Yes, food-grade silicone is an inert material that’s BPA, BPS, PVC, phthalate and latex-free. With a soft and flexible surface that won't shatter, it is well-suited to first foods and baby-led weaning.
Can silicone dinnerware go in the microwave, oven, air fryer or freezer?
Silicone usually works across a wide temperature range (commonly freezer-safe to around −40 °C and heat-safe to ~200–230 °C, product-dependent). It’s typically microwave, oven, and air-fryer safe, however check that the items doesn't have any stainless-steel or plastic components.
Are silicone plates and bowls dishwasher safe?
Most food-grade silicone is top rack dishwasher-safe. For everyday care, rinse after use, wash with mild detergent, avoid abrasive pads and let items air-dry completely to prevent moisture odour.
How do I remove soap taste, odours or stains from silicone?
If your silicone plate or bowl still tastes or smells of soap even after rinsing, try one or a mix of these:
- boil for 5-10 minutes to release trapped residue, then air-dry
- rinse in 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water, for 15-30 minutes, then rinse
Red sauces, fruits or curry can leave colour stains on silicone, even after rinsing. Try one or a mix of these:
- apply a paste of baking soda, optionally with lemon, rest then rinse
- some brief time in direct sunlight can help to fade tomato/curry discolouration
- use diluted 3% hydrogen peroxide occasionally for stubborn stains, then rinse very well
Do suction bases work on all surfaces?
Suction bases work best on clean, flat, non-textured surfaces, like smooth highchair trays or bench tops. Wipe both surfaces dry, press firmly from the centre and check the seal. Textured wood, uneven stone, or crumbly surfaces can weaken suction and may not be as effective.
What is the best way to store silicone bowls and plates?
Store silicone clean and fully dry in a cool, shaded place. Avoid direct sunlight and strong fragrances.
Recycled Plastic
Good for the planet, safe for baby
Recycled-plastic dinnerware turns existing plastic waste into food safe, durable, lightweight baby bowls and toddler plates.
Commonly made from post-consumer materials, like recycled milk jugs, these items help reduce landfill and plastic pollution while delivering everyday practicality.
Choosing recycled plastic supports a circular economy, by giving plastics a second life. While these items aren’t biodegradable, they’re hard-wearing, long-lasting and often recyclable again at end-of-life.
Simple to care for, most pieces are top-rack dishwasher safe. They’re a smart pick for eco-conscious families who want colourful, child proof tableware that stands up to daily use.
What kinds of recycled plastics are used for baby dinnerware?
Most recycled-plastic bowls and plates use High-Density Polyethylene HDPE plastic (#2) or Polypropylene PP (#5) sourced from post-consumer items. These plastics are cleaned, reprocessed, and moulded into food-contact-safe products.
Is recycled plastic dinnerware safe for babies?
Yes - look for items that are BPA-free BPS-free, phthalate-free and certified food-safe. Quality products do not rely on additional coatings, and any colourants used should be food-grade.
Can I microwave recycled plastic bowls and plates?
Whilst recycled plastic is often microwave safe, it is not recommended for cooking food. Short microwave reheats are acceptable, for no more than 20 seconds,
Avoid super-hot or oily foods that can overheat or cause staining.
Are recycled plastic plates and bowls dishwasher-safe?
Yes, many are top-rack dishwasher-safe. If you’ve served tomato-based or oily foods, rinse or wash promptly with a grease-cutting dishwashing soap to minimise staining. For tough stains, try baking soda and vinegar with a firm (non-scratching) brush.
Bamboo
Natural and beautiful
Bamboo bowls and plates offer an eco-friendly alternative to plastic for babies and toddlers and are often paired with silicone suction bases, for added stability. Lightweight yet sturdy, bamboo dinnerware showcases a beautiful natural grain that suits minimalist or earthy home aesthetics.
Because bamboo is a rapidly renewable grass (not a tree), it can mature in just a few years, making it a popular choice for families seeking a planet-friendly material.
Food-safe bamboo is free from BPA, phthalates, and melamine. Bamboo also has natural antimicrobial properties, which helps discourage odours and surface bacteria when items are cleaned and dried properly. While durable for daily use, bamboo is still a natural fibre that requires some additional care. To keep bamboo from drying out, it can be periodically conditioned with a small amount of food-safe oil.
Can bamboo bowls or plates go in the microwave?
No - bamboo is not microwave safe.
How do I clean bamboo dinnerware?
Bamboo dinnerware should be hand washed only with mild soap, in order to preserve the material. Avoid soaking and do not use in the dishwasher. Dry upright in a well-ventilated area.
How do I care for bamboo bowls and plates so they last?
Hand wash, and dry the dinnerware thoroughly. Condition every few weeks with a small amount of food-safe oil (e.g fractionated coconut oil or mineral oil) to prevent drying or cracking.
For stains, use a mild baking-soda paste; for a quick refresh, rub with lemon and coarse salt, then rinse and dry.
Are colour variations or speckles normal in bamboo plates?
Yes - natural grain, colour variation, and subtle speckles are part of bamboo’s appeal. Each piece is unique and may show slight differences in tone or pattern due to its natural origin.
Plant Based
Compostable, safe and gentle
Plant-based materials, are becoming a popular choice for eco-conscious families. Made from renewable resources like corn, sugarcane, or sweet potatoes, these biodegradable and compostable alternatives provide a safe, low-tox option for children’s dinnerware.
Unlike traditional petroleum-based plastics, plant-based resins are melamine and BPA-free, as well as free from harmful phthalates. They offer a sturdy and lightweight feel, but with the added benefit of being gentle on the planet. Dishwasher and microwave safe, they are both practical and sustainable for everyday use.
PLA (polylactic acid) is created by extracting natural fibres from renewable crops and binding them into a durable, reusable material. At the end of its life, it can be composted, to reduce waste. For families aiming to reduce plastic use, plant-based feeding bowls and plates are a stylish, functional and environmentally friendly choice.
What are plant-based baby feeding products made from?
Plant-based baby feeding products are typically made from renewable resources such as wheat straw, cornstarch blends, bamboo fibres, or PLA (polylactic acid) derived from crops like corn, sugarcane, and sweet potatoes. These materials are biodegradable and compostable, melamine-free, BPA-free and phthalate-free, making them a safe and sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.
Are plant-based baby bowls and plates microwave-safe?
Yes - unlike many eco-friendly dinnerware options, most plant-based feeding bowls and plates are microwave-safe, which makes heating meals quick and convenient, without the worry of harmful chemicals leaching into food.
Note - check the individual product or brand for any exclusions.
Can I put plant-based baby dinnerware in the dishwasher?
Absolutely - plant-based dinnerware is often dishwasher-friendly, which means it can withstand regular washing without warping or breaking down. It’s also designed not to absorb food odours, so even after strong smelling foods, the dishes will come out fresh and clean.
Why do some plant-based dishes have brown speckles?
If you notice small brown speckles on your plant-based dishes, those are natural bamboo fibres from the manufacturing process. These speckles are completely safe and simply add to the unique, earthy look of each piece - proof that the dinnerware has come from natural, renewable materials.
Are plant-based plates and bowls durable enough for everyday use?
Yes - despite being made from compostable and biodegradable materials, plant-based dinnerware is sturdy, lightweight and built to handle everyday use by little ones. It’s strong enough for regular meals and snacks, yet still gentle on the planet at the end of its life cycle.
Stainless Steel
Durable and long-lasting
Stainless steel is a favourite material for children's dinnerware as it is virtually indestructible. It's smooth surface doesn't absorb odours or flavours, which helps keep food tasting fresh.
Food-grade stainless steel is non-reactive and free from chemicals and coatings, so there’s no risk of leaching into food. It resists corrosion and staining and retains temperature well, making it great for warm or cool meals on-the-go, especially when paired with an ice pack or insulated bag.
With a long lifespan and end-of-life recyclability, stainless steel supports low-waste, eco-conscious choices. It’s an excellent choice for older children, food on the go, and families prioritising durability and a greener footprint.
What is 18/8 stainless steel?
18/8 (304) stainless steel is a food grade material that contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel - a composition known for excellent corrosion and rust resistance. It’s the same hygienic and durable material that is widely used in kitchenware and food preparation, because it won’t react with foods or retain flavours.
Can stainless steel baby dishes be used in a microwave?
No, stainless steel bowls and plates are not microwave-safe. Food should be reheated separately before plating and serving.
Are stainless steel bowls and plates dishwasher safe?
Yes, most stainless steel bowls and plates are easy to clean and dishwasher friendly. Always double check the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific guidance.
Does stainless steel keep food hot or cold?
Yes, double-wall stainless steel adds light insulation, helping keep contents at temperature longer and reducing exterior condensation - especially when paired with a hot or cold pack and an insulated lunch bag.
Featured Brands
Beaba
BÉABA is a trusted French brand best known for their baby feeding accessories. BÉABA combines sleek European design with practical functionality and includes weaning essentials and tableware made from safe, high-quality materials.
Bobo & Boo
Bobo & Boo is an Australian brand creating stylish, eco-friendly dinnerware from sustainable materials like bamboo and plant-based fibres. With modern colours and minimalist designs, Bobo & Boo tableware is designed to be safe, durable, and free from harmful toxins.
Bumkins
Bumkins is US brand that is loved by parents for its durable, easy-to-clean feeding solutions. Bumkins specialises in functional products made from food-safe silicone, such as their versatile suction plates, which are designed to make mealtimes cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable./collections/bumkins
Emondo Kids
Emondo Kids is an Australian brand that creates beautiful, eco-friendly dinnerware, to help make mealtimes fun and engaging for little ones. Best known for their signature wooden plates shaped like animals, the products are made from sustainable materials such as bamboo and are designed to promote independent eating.
Lion & Lady
Lion and Lady is an Australian brand with a focus on materials that are kind to the environment and safer for you. They offer plates and bowls in food grade stainless steel, which are a great choice for durability as well as a low waste, eco-conscious choice.
Re-Play
Re-Play is a vibrant and eco-conscious brand creating durable children’s tableware from recycled milk jugs.Made in the USA, Re-Play’s colourful plates and bowls are built to last, making them ideal for everyday use at home or on the go. Re-Play is a favourite among families who care about the planet and practical parenting.
We Might Be Tiny
We Might Be Tiny is an Australian brand that designs stylish, silicone-based baby and toddler tableware. Known for their signature bear and bunny bowls and plates, each product is made from high-quality, food-grade silicone that’s safe, durable, and easy to clean, to help make mealtimes more manageable and fun.
Wild Indiana
Wild Indiana is an Australian brand that creates beautifully designed, functional feeding products for babies and toddlers. Known for their silicone bowl and spoon sets with strong suction bases, Wild Indiana focuses on making mealtimes easier, cleaner, and more enjoyable, with a modern aesthetic and a commitment to supporting independent eating.
"First foods - because sleeping through the night was getting too easy”
Where Can I Find More Information on Feeding Babies?
Raising Children Network is an official parenting website funded by the Australian Government. It provides advice on introducing solids and safe feeding, including:
Australian Breastfeeding Association provides practical guidance on the transition from breastfeeding to solids, including:
Conclusion
When it comes to feeding your little one, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re looking for soft silicone suction plates, elegant bamboo bowls or toxin-free stainless steel, each material offers its own unique benefits.
At babyshop we stock a curated range of high-quality feeding products made from safe, sustainable, and stylish materials. From first bites to toddler meals, you’ll find everything you need to support your baby’s feeding journey.
Explore our full collection of baby bowls and plates today – and make every mealtime easier, safer and more beautiful.
About Us
Welcome to babyshop, Australia’s first online baby store.
Since 1998, we've been committed to providing quality baby products and accessories, that help provide solutions to common parenting needs.
As parents, we understand the importance of quality, safety and comfort for the littlest members of your family. babyshop was born out of our real-life experiences and the desire to make shopping for mother care and baby products accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Our focus is on offering small and practical essentials, that will make a big difference in the life of a new parent.
Discover our range of products for baby bath and bedtime, along with stylish clothing options and feeding accessories. We also have baby toys for playtime, gear for travel, mother care essentials and a selection of gifts and keepsakes, all sourced from trusted Australian and international brands.
All of our products are available online, as well as in our Adamstown store, allowing you to choose the most convenient way for you to shop.
We pride ourselves on providing helpful, friendly customer service and look forward to assisting you with finding products that meet your needs, during this special time.
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.